Health

40 Everyday Activities That Can Cause Cancer

35. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase your risk of cancer. Even if you don’t smoke yourself, exposure to secondhand smoke can raise your cancer… Trista - June 17, 2019

Those who don’t smoke first hand are still exposed to the cigarette smoke. Pixabay

35. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase your risk of cancer.

Even if you don’t smoke yourself, exposure to secondhand smoke can raise your cancer risk. There’s no safe level of exposure, and while most public places have banned smoking on the premises, it can be hard to avoid smoke in your home or at private gatherings. Being in the house of someone who smokes, even if they’re not actively smoking at the time, can still harm you; chemicals from cigarette smoke can stick around in furniture and carpets.

The best way to protect yourself from secondhand smoke is to avoid people who smoke or places that allow cigarette smoking. If it’s not possible to avoid smokers, educating them on the risk to you and themselves may convince them to drop the habit for good.

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Too much fast food can create weight and health concerns. Pixabay

34. Being overweight can be hard on your body.

Most people don’t associate cancer with being overweight or obese. Being overweight is more often associated with diabetes or heart disease. However, about 8% of all cancers can be attributed to being overweight or obese, so losing weight can help you lower the risk of getting a variety of cancers, including liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, breast cancer, and more.

Obesity is when a person’s BMI is higher than average and is a step above overweight. Shutterstock.

“Bodyweight plays a role in inflammation, changes in hormone levels, and can affect biochemicals in your body like insulin,” says Gapstur. Prevention includes eating healthy foods and getting enough physical activity. Both of these lifestyle changes not only help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the chances of developing some cancers but can ward off depression and boost your mood. Luckily, losing weight immediately reduces the risk of these types of cancer. It also increases your rate of survival, should you be diagnosed.

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Many women (and men) enjoy getting their nails done regularly. Pixabay

33. Getting your nails done consistently can increase your risk of cancer.

With the rise in conscientious consumerism, many customers know that nail polishes traditionally contain cancer-causing compounds. Chemicals like triphenyl phosphate, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate can all cause cancer or congenital disabilities. The danger of getting your nails done doesn’t just impact clients, however.

Manicurists are also at increased risk of being diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Nail salon workers are at an increased risk due to breathing in dangerous fumes. If you’re a manicurist or simply love getting your nails done, make sure to only go to salons that provide gloves and masks. Check for proper ventilation as well!

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Tap water from your kitchen sink may not be the healthiest for your body. Pixabay

32. Drinking tap water can be harmful to your overall health.

It’s long been understood that unfiltered tap water can be dangerous to your health. From Erin Brokovich’s exposure of chromium-6 in Hinkley, CA to the ongoing saga of Flint, MI, tap water and the potential compounds it contains have been in the news a lot. And while most tap water goes through some sort of filtration before coming to your house, that doesn’t mean it’s safe.

In addition to chromium-6, you can find arsenic, disinfection byproducts, nitrates, and more lurking in your water supply. The best option is to invest in your own water filter, whether through a pitcher or by installing a secondary filtration system in your home. You should also regularly check to see what chemicals may be in your tap water.

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Failing to partake in physical activity can take a severe toll on your health. Pixabay

31. Inactivity can lead to serious health ailments.

Many adults work sedentary jobs, sitting at a desk for eight or more hours every day. However, the ACS recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week, spread out over several days. If you’re not getting exercise, you’re in danger of developing colon cancer, breast cancer, or endometrial cancer.

There are other cancers you’ll also be at higher risk of getting, including liver, myeloma, and kidney cancer. However, increasing the activity in your life can help improve your immune system, reduce inflammation, and lower the levels of certain growth factors that have been associated with cancer development and progression. So going on a walk every day, riding a bike, or taking a dip in a pool can help you lose weight and improve your health!

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Many Americans work the late shift, which can be difficult for them and their families. Pexels

30. Working the late shift can be damaging to your body.

The connection between sleep and cancer is still a developing field of research, but several studies have indicated a link between poor sleep and increased cancer risk. People with circadian rhythm disorders may have a higher rate of breast and prostate cancer. Those most commonly at risk for sleep disorders include people who work in overnight or graveyard shifts.

Night nurses, third shift workers, and people who work split shifts that may disrupt sleep cycles are in danger of increased cancer risk. If possible, avoid working a job that requires odd hours; when that’s not possible, try to ensure that you’re getting regular sleep, even if it’s not at night.

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The basement is the main entry point for radon gas in the home. Shutterstock

29. Radon exposure is more common than most realize.

Not many people know about the danger of radon exposure. Radon is a radioactive gas found naturally in the air, soil, and water and is carcinogenic in concentrated amounts. Radon is a naturally occurring gas, and some parts of the country deal with higher rates.

Some building materials can also emit radon. Luckily, you can quickly test for radon by purchasing a testing kit or working with a radon professional. Generally speaking, reducing radon in your home is a reasonably straightforward process, and you can contact your state radon office for a list of professionals that are available to help.

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Many people utilize dry cleaning services due to their busy schedules. Pixabay

28. Getting your clothes dry-cleaned can be more harmful than helpful.

When you’re preparing for a special event, you want to look your best. For many people, that means getting your outfit dry-cleaned so that you know it’s truly stunning. However, most dry cleaning processes use a chemical called “perc,” a known health hazard.

If you work in a dry cleaner or regularly get your shirts starched and pressed, you may be at higher risk for esophagus, kidney, and bladder cancer. If you absolutely must dry clean your clothes, try to minimize how often you do so. Since it’s regular exposure to the chemical that increases your risk of getting these cancers, infrequent dry-cleaning shouldn’t be an issue.

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It’s critical when getting close to someone to be as careful as possible. Pixabay

27. HPV is a common and silent infection.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the single most commonly sexually transmitted infection, and many people with HPV don’t develop any symptoms. However, even without exhibiting symptoms, people with HPV have an increased risk of developing several different cancer types. There are more than 40 different types that can be passed through sexual contact. Many forms of the virus go away on their own and relatively harmless. However, others can cause cervical, vaginal, and anal cancers.

The ACS estimates that over 31,000 men and women are diagnosed with HPV-caused cancers every year. If you don’t have HPV, getting the Gardasil vaccination can protect against infections. If you’re over 26, however, the vaccine may not be effective. In that case, it’s imperative to get screened regularly if you’re sexually active and seek treatment if you are diagnosed with precancerous cell changes.

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It’s common to find a platter of meat and cheese when attending parties. Pixabay

26. Eating too much processed meat is dangerous to your health.

Bacon, hotdogs, lunchmeat – nearly everyone loves processed meats. However, research shows that eating any processed meat increases the risk of both stomach and colorectal cancers. Processed meat has been treated in some way to preserve or flavor it, such as by salting, curing, fermenting, or smoking.

These meats are generally made with nitrates and nitrates, which can form nitrosamines when heated. These carcinogenic compounds can build up and cause issues. You can look for nitrite- and nitrate-free selections of processed meat. You can also save your consumption of processed meats like bacon and sausage for special occasions. But overall, it’s best to avoid eating processed meat entirely if at all possible.

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Many people enjoy hot tea or hot coffee in the mornings. Pixabay

25. Drinking overly hot beverages can increase your risk of cancer.

Many people start their days off with hot coffee or tea, especially in the winter. Hot chocolate, cider, and other hot drinks are often shared on social occasions, and people don’t think twice about partaking. Drinking scalding hot beverages that are steamy enough to burn a person’s tongue and that are served over 140 degrees Fahrenheit can elevate your risk of esophageal cancer.

Dr. James Doidge, a senior research associate at University College London, says, “It doesn’t take a scientist to appreciate that repeated irritation of any body surface increases your risk of cancer…many foods and drinks contribute to the risk of gastrointestinal cancers.” Most hot commercial beverages are served between 140-160 degrees F. Be kind to your tongue and to your esophagus. To reduce your risk, let the drink cool before taking your first sip.

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We have all been known to go out to eat and bring home a takeout container with our leftovers. Pexels

24. It’s dangerous to heat takeout containers.

If you’ve ever reheated your takeout in the container it came in, then you may have put yourself at risk of exposure to styrene. Styrene is used in the creation of a variety of things, including many types of food containers.

Studies have shown that repeated exposure to this chemical can increase your risk of cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, as well as cancer of your pancreas or esophagus. While most people will only experience the potential of styrene exposure through food containers, people who work in fabrication can also be exposed. You can limit your risk of exposure at home by directly transferring your takeout to a standard plate or bowl!

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Many people favor red meat, such as a big steak, especially on special occasions. Freepik

23. Overeating red meat is bad for your health.

Like processed meat, red meat can also contain nitrates and nitrites. However, even without these compounds, the process of cooking and eating red meat can expose you to other cancer-causing compounds, like heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). When you grill a steak or cook a burger over an open flame, these compounds are created. So as mutagenic compounds, they can change your DNA in ways that can increase your cancer risk.

The American Institute of Cancer Research recommends eating less than 18 ounces of red meat per week to avoid increasing your risk of colorectal cancer. Lower your consumption of burgers and other red meat, including pork and lamb, and try subbing in meatless meals.

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When being intimate with a partner, it’s best to be safe. Pexels

22. Having unprotected sex can increase your exposure to health ailments.

Sex has several health benefits, like reducing stress and boosting your immune system. However, having unprotected sex also comes with its own dangers. Most notably, having unprotected sex puts you at risk for contracting STIs like HPV and chlamydia, both of which have been linked to increased cancer risk.

Because both of these STIs can have subtle symptoms – or none at all – it’s essential to be regularly tested if you are engaging in unprotected sex. The easiest way to prevent exposure to these STIs is, of course, using protection.

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Many individuals find gardening to be a soothing, relaxing hobby. Shutterstock

21. Gardening can be a harmful hobby if you’re not careful.

If you love to garden, you probably hate weeds. But unfortunately, if you choose to take care of those weeds with weed killer, you’re putting yourself in danger. Glyphosate, the most commonly used weed killer, has been shown to be carcinogenic to humans.

To keep your garden looking gorgeous without using harmful chemicals, consider turning to natural methods of weed control. Shade the soil around your plants, be careful about what types of compost you use, and make sure to pull up the entire plant when weeding by hand. Using a few simple tricks will help both you and your garden thrive.

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We can all enjoy a good, warm donut from time to time. Pexels

20. Eating trans fat can be harmful to your body and its ability to function.

While trans fats have been banned, they can still turn up in your food. Trans fats are human-made fats that can increase your risk of breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Women with the highest levels of trans fats had double the risk of developing breast cancer as women with the lowest levels

Common foods that may contain trans fats include snack foods like frozen pizza and microwave popcorn, fast foods, margarine and shortening, and ready-to-use frostings. The best way to avoid eating trans fats is to check the label and ingredients. If a product says it contains partially hydrogenated oils, don’t eat it!

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Air quality can severely impact an individual’s health quality. Freepik

19. Exposure to air pollution can be harmful to your lungs.

It’s no secret that air pollution is dangerous. Smoggy air, and the particulates in it, can also lead to cancer. Many components of air pollution have already been classified as carcinogens. However, for the first time, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified outdoor air pollution as a whole as a cancer-causing agent. Particulate matter – a significant part of outdoor air pollution – can increase lung and bladder cancer risk.

The inhalation of soot has also been linked to lung, esophageal, and bladder cancers. While we can’t just breathe less, we can still take action to protect ourselves and future generations. By supporting higher regulatory standards on industries that cause the most pollution and standing behind clean energy and improved mass transit, you can help reduce the risk of air pollution.

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It’s important to have conversations with your family to understand what risks may be inherited. Pexels

18. What we inherit from our parents can increase our health risks.

One of the things we can’t change is who our parents are, but that can mean an increased risk of specific cancer types. The most common cancer associated with inherited gene mutations is breast cancer, which develops from the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These gene mutations can also increase the risk of ovarian cancer in women and pancreatic and prostate cancers.

Women fighting breast cancer. Credit: Freepik

While you can’t prevent these inherited gene mutations, knowledge is the key. Make sure to study your family history for increased breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Check yourself regularly, both through self-screening and the appropriate procedures at your doctor. Taking preventative measures early and often can reduce your risk of developing these cancers.

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Asbestos is a dangerous material that can have severe health consequences. Pixabay

17. Asbestos exposure can create long-term health issues.

Asbestos was used as an insulation material for years before the dust was linked to lung cancer. People have known about the danger of asbestos for years, but older buildings – like schools, older homes, or older public buildings – may still put you at risk of exposure.

Inhaling asbestos can cause mesothelioma, a rare, aggressive form of cancer that doesn’t cure it. Insulation, fireproofing products, older consumer products, and construction materials all can contain asbestos. If you live in an older home, make sure to have it checked by an asbestos professional. If you’re concerned that your workplace may put you at risk of exposure, speak to your HR department or another person in charge to arrange an inspection.

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While there may be some health benefits, too much fermented foods can be harmful to your body. Pixabay

16. Overeating fermented food can be dangerous to your health.

While fermented foods can have several health benefits, there’s increasing reason to believe that some fermented foods can increase your risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Much like processed meats, some fermented foods contain high amounts of nitrates and nitrites, which react with proteins in your body to form nitrosamines.

We’re not suggesting you cut fermented foods out of your life completely, especially since the probiotics they provide can be beneficial to gut health. However, be mindful of how much you’re eating, and check ingredient lists if you’re not making your own. Eating a balanced diet that includes fermented foods like pickles, sauerkraut, or kimchi as a treat should be safe.

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Chewing tobacco is often an alternative to smoking cigarettes. Pixabay

15. Chewing tobacco is a dangerous and addictive habit.

Some people view chewing tobacco as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes, but smokeless tobacco can be just as harmful to your health. In addition to containing higher amounts of nicotine, oral tobacco contains at least 28 chemicals known to cause cancer.

If you use any smokeless tobacco, you’re at a higher risk of mouth cancer, stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, and more. You may also be at increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. It’s important to quit using chewing tobacco as soon as possible to reduce your risk of getting painful cancer.

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Checking your blood sugar is a necessary procedure for individuals with diabetes. Pixabay

14. Having diabetes can increase your risk of cancer.

Bad news – having either type 1 or type 2 diabetes can put you at a higher risk for cancer. Women with diabetes are at a higher risk than men; they’re 27% more likely to develop cancer, while men are only 19% more likely. While there is no cure for type 1 diabetes, you can reverse type 2 diabetes through diet changes and weight loss.

Healthy exercise can help elongate your life. Shutterstock

Maintaining an average blood sugar level with type 1 and type 2 diabetes can reduce your risk. Scientists believe that consistently high blood sugar may trigger the DNA mutations that can increase the danger, so work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar.

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Spending too much time on our cell phones can increase our radiation exposure. Shutterstock

13. Radiation exposure comes in many dangerous forms.

This one seems fairly obvious. Exposure to high amounts of radiation is dangerous and can damage your tissues. But even frequent exposure to small amounts of radiation can, over time, be hazardous to your health. Moreover, radiation can come from unexpected places, like your TV, cell phone, or even your car.

While the people at the highest risk are those who work around radiation every day, it’s essential to monitor your radiation exposure and limit it when you can. Try to stay out of the sun and protect yourself from UV light. If you’re pregnant, older, or have a compromised immune system, it’s especially important to protect yourself from radiation.

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Diesel is a standard fuel utilized by larger trucks, trailers, and buses. Pixabay

12. Exposure to diesel exhaust can create health issues.

Diesel fuel is a popular fuel for large engines, including trucks, buses, trains, and more. Unfortunately, while these vehicles offer benefits like better fuel economy and a more rugged engine that requires less maintenance, they also belch over 30 different types of carcinogens into the air.

Diesel exhaust is conclusively linked to lung cancer and may put you at higher risk for esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and more. If you drive a personal vehicle fueled by diesel, it may be time to consider switching. If you have to drive a diesel-powered car for work, limit the time you spend around your vehicle while it’s running, and ask your employer about a personal respirator.

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Our genes are the makeup of our bodies and also something that we have no control over. Pixabay

11. Gene mutations may occur and cause health issues.

In addition to inherited gene mutations, certain activities during your life can cause gene mutations. Sun exposure, for instance, causes mutations in your genes that can lead to skin cancer. Some gene mutations occur as errors made by DNA, which are linked to up to 10% of all cancer diagnoses.

To reduce your risk of cancer because of genetic mutation, try to avoid activities that may cause issues and make sure that you’re checking your body regularly. While you can’t prevent genetic mutation, catching cancer early can significantly increase your chances of survival.

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Be sure to place your phone away from you while you sleep. Shutterstock

10. Falling asleep with your phone next to your head is unhealthy.

We all have been guilty of falling asleep with our phone next to our head, at least once or twice. Whether listening to your favorite podcast or scrolling through social media, you should make sure to get your phone as far away from your head as possible while you sleep. Cell phones release radio-frequency energy, which has been linked to brain cancer.

Although cell phones are categorized under non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation and cannot damage DNA or cells directly, research suggests that it could increase the risk of cancer by reducing melatonin levels in the body. Melatonin has been shown to suppress the development of certain tumors. To minimize your risk, be sure to put your phone as far away from your head while you get your rest. Not to mention that scrolling on your phone before bed has made it more difficult to fall asleep.

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Many women wear makeup daily. Shutterstock

9. Makeup that contains parabens can be harmful to your health.

While the chemicals in cosmetics make us look, feel, and smell better, research strongly suggests that at certain exposure levels, some of these chemicals may contribute to the development of cancer in individuals. Many of the makeup on the market has been found to contain parabens, which are the chemical compounds used as preservatives. Found in countless makeup and skincare products, many individuals are likely getting exposure to parabens, maybe some without their knowledge. The parabens are easily absorbed through the skin and can cause a spike in breast cancer cells’ growth.

Phthalates are commonly used in nail polish and hair spray to hold color and reduce brittleness. Phthalates are also a hormone disrupter and can disrupt the balance in which your hormones interact with each other. With so many people wearing makeup daily, it is scary to think of how many are being exposed. The next time you purchase makeup or skincare products, be sure to check the ingredients to minimize your risk.

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Many people look forward to an ice-cold soda. Shutterstock

8. Drinking soda, especially diet soda, is a risk to your health.

While it is true that all soda poses a risk to your health, diet soda has been proven to be the worst. With copious amounts of aspartame, diet soda has been shown to lead to an increased risk of blood-related cancers. Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that has been in the United States since the early 1980s.

Diet sodas are not any healthier than regular sodas. Shutterstock.

Concerns about aspartame causing a number of health problems, including cancer, have been around for many years. Many people grab a quick soda on their way home from work or while out to eat. For the sake of your health, it may be best to stick with water as much as possible. When you’re craving a sugary drink, it may be better to just indulge in the occasional full-sugar soda instead.

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Many people drink multiple bottled glasses of water throughout one day. Shutterstock

7. Using plastic water bottles can cause cancer.

We all have been known to grab a plastic water bottle from time to time. Whether we’re running out of the house, on a road trip, or at a sporting event, you may be drinking out of a plastic water bottle. You may want to consider preparing or bringing your own glass or steel water bottle. Instead of purchasing bottled water on your next road trip or while at work, prepare the night before with more health-friendly bottles.

Plastics can be dangerous, especially when they leach chemicals out through scratches or cracks in a container. Plastic beverage containers can contaminate liquids with potentially harmful chemicals such as BPA, a synthetic hormone that can alter your body’s hormonal balance and increase your risk of cancer. While many plastics manufacturers have started labeling their products ‘BPA-free’, there is still a lot of breast and prostate cancer-causing stuff around. Some BPA replacements may not be any better for our health.

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Nothing tastes better than an ice-cold glass of water on a hot day. Shutterstock

6. Failing to drink enough water can be detrimental to your health.

Drinking too much alcohol, diet soda, or even tap water can be harmful to your body. However, not drinking enough water can also hurt your body. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps everything in your body running correctly.

drink as much water as possible to stay hydrated. Shutterstock.

The water dilutes substances in the urine that could potentially help to reduce your risk of cancer. Ensuring you’re getting enough water has other health benefits in addition to lowering your risk of cancer. Be sure to drink enough water to keep all of your bodily systems up to par.

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Pumping gas is something that many of us do regularly. Shutterstock

5. When you pump gas, you might be harming your body.

Filling up the car with gas is something that most people do regularly. However, it’s critical not to add more gas after the nozzle clicks off. By adding even just a little bit more gas, you are increasing your risk of cancer.

The extra fuel could impact the pump’s vapor recovery system and potentially release cancer-causing chemicals like benzene into the air you’re breathing. The next time you fill up your tank, be sure to stop pumping once you hear the nozzle click. The extra gas is not worth risking your health.

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Many people use store-bought laundry detergents when doing their laundry. Shutterstock

4. Using certain laundry detergents can cause cancer.

It seems harmless enough to do your laundry. We all have to wash our dirty laundry at some point, and for those that have children, you may be doing twice as much laundry. Your detergent removes stains, and may be leaving behind a toxic chemical. To be safe, it’s essential to understand what chemicals are in your laundry detergent.

Some detergents contain chemicals that can potentially cause cancer. Some scented laundry detergents include the carcinogens acetaldehyde and benzene, both of which can be detrimental. Benzene causes leukemia and other blood cancers, while acetaldehyde has been shown to cause nasal and throat cancer. You would never want to put yourself or your family at risk, so the next time you go shopping for detergent, be sure to check the ingredients.

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There are scented candles fit for every scent and season. Shutterstock

3. Scented candles can be harmful to your health.

Scented candles are often used to create a soothing, calming environment. Since there are scented candles for every season and scent, it is not uncommon for them to be used year-round. While they may provide immediate relaxation, they can also do a large amount of damage down the road.

Scented candles can be full of potentially dangerous chemicals like benzene and toluene. Breathing in those chemicals regularly could increase your risk of cancer. Not all scented candles contain these hazardous chemicals, but sometimes the risk is not worth the reward.

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Falling asleep with the TV on is extremely common. Shutterstock

2. Sleeping with the TV on can harm your health.

If you’re known to fall asleep while watching your favorite TV show or just simply having the background noise, you may want to reconsider. Your TV emanates an artificial light that has been linked to two types of cancer.

Although you may be sleeping, the light at night is still impacting your body, even without you knowing it. Some people argue that they need the background noise to fall asleep, so if you need the TV on to fall asleep, you could try to set a timer to limit your risk and exposure.

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Flossing is important but often missed part of an effective oral routine. Shutterstock

1. Skipping out on flossing is terrible for your oral hygiene.

An effective oral routine includes brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. If you’re like the majority of people, you may not be doing all three. Perhaps you’re doing some combination of the three, but not all. To stay healthy, it’s essential you brush, floss, and use mouthwash.

Failing to floss can increase the risk of gum disease. Once you have gum disease, you are at an increased risk of developing more serious health issues such as cancer. Coming up with a routine that you can stick with can help ensure you don’t miss this critical step. Don’t wait; start flossing tonight.

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